Ronald Raymond Dillow

Ronald Raymond Dillow, age 92, of Dongola, passed away on Friday, Dec. 26, 2025 at Auburn Creek Assisted Living in Cape Girardeau, Mo.

He was born on March 5, 1933 to Herbert and Erie Dillow in Dongola, Ill. On July 27, 1954, he married the love of his life, Martha Marie Ury, and spent over 62 years together.

Ronald held the distinction and honor of being the oldest member of the oldest Lutheran Congregation in Illinois at St. John’s Lutheran Church where he also served on the church council for many years. He likewise served on the St. John’s Cemetery Board for many years. 

A lifelong farmer in the Dongola area, Ronald faithfully worked the land he loved. 

After serving his country in the United States Air Force for four years, he returned home to the family farm in Dongola and was a 50+ year member of the Farm Bureau. 

Ronald was a true Christian family man who also had a deep love for animals.

Survivors include his two daughters, Melissa (Tod) Bound and Rhonda (Kenny) Bramlett; four grandchildren, Nick (Erica) Bound, Taylor (Eric) Simmons, Kegan Bramlett, and Kiersten Bramlett; five great-grandchildren, Brody Fenton, Reed Fenton, Gabe Bound, Abby Bound, and Caleb Bound; along with nephews and other relatives.

Along with his parents and wife, he is preceded in death by his two sisters, Nina (Clyde Sr.) Stokes and Iris Fay Dillow; and one brother, Harold Nenivah Dillow.

Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025 with Pastor Chere Riedel officiating at St. John’s Lutheran Church. 

Interment followed the service at St. John’s Cemetery in Dongola, Ill.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be made to the St. John’s Lutheran Church and/or St. John’s Cemetery.

Crain Funeral Home in Dongola is in charge of arrangements.

To view the obituary or to leave an online condolence for the family visit www.crainsonline.com